Frosted Flatwoods Salamander | Ambystoma cingulatum

Declines

Flatwoods Salamanders have suffered a 90% reduction in population since 2000, placing them at immenent risk of extinction in the next 5-10 years unless we are able to stop it an recover these species. We need to save this beautiful species before it is too late!

Habitat

Flatwoods Salamanders are temporary wetland breeding amphibians, and breed in fish-less wetlands that dry out periodically throughout the year. They are Long Leaf Pine ecosystem endemics. This Long Leaf Pine ecosystem has been reduced to 3% of it's original range in the southeastern coastal plain.

Threats

Major threats include loss of habitat and fire suppression. Flatwoods Salamanders need open canopy ponds with wiregrass and this habitat disappears when naturally occurring wild fires are suppressed. Because of this, Flatwoods Salamanders are disappearing from protected lands.

Recovery Plan

The Amphibian Foundation is working closely with USFWS, USGS, GA DNR, and others to establish captive assurance/breeding colonies of Ambystoma cingulatum. We hope to earn how to breed this species in captivity in order to produce offspring which can then be released into properly managed habitat in GA, SC and FL.

How you can support flatwoods salamander conservation

Become a Member of The Amphibian Foundation!Memberships support The Amphibian Foundation and its conservation initiatives. Memberships are available in any amount, so please click here to learn more, or give the gift of membership to someone who cares about amphibian conservation and the environment.